Next year marks the 10-year anniversary since I passed my driving test and I can honestly say that it is still one of my proudest achievements to date.
The ability to drive is something I will never take for granted, as growing up it was not something I ever thought I would be able to do.
For those that don't know, I have a disability called Spinal Muscular Atrophy which ultimately causes muscle weakness in both my arms and legs. As a full-time wheelchair user, driving just never really occurred to me... until I was introduced to the Motability Scheme.
Since passing my driving test, I have grown so much in confidence and become a much more independent person.
Driving has enabled me to experience so many amazing opportunities - such as gaining employment, socialising with friends and travelling to music festivals across the UK.
It is often assumed that people with disabilities lead unfulfilling lives, which makes me so mad because it couldn't be further from the truth! My Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle gives me the #EverydayFreedom to live my life exactly how I want.
Driving Controls
I drive my vehicle using a specific set of hand controls called 'PARAVAN Space Drive'. This includes a miniature steering wheel which is incredibly light-weight, as well as an accelerator and brake lever.
Whilst remaining seated in my wheelchair, I am able to enter via a ramp through the boot into the driving position. All doors to the vehicle are also controlled via an electric key fob, which makes life a whole lot easier!
Other features such as my lights, indicators and hand-brake have also been adapted to a small, easy to push button.
The great thing about the Motability Scheme is that each case is reviewed individually and adaptions are made in order to suit your specific needs - regardless of your disability.
My "Happy Place"
Whether you are a driver or a passenger, I believe we all have that one "happy place" that we love to travel to.
As a proud Cornishman, my "happy place" is Perranporth beach. I love nothing more than to jump in my car and head towards the sea, often parking up on the clifftops with my laptop or a good book - as I just find the atmosphere so relaxing.
Where is your "happy place"?
I'd love to know! Please comment your answers on my latest social media post.
Motability Scheme
The Motability Scheme enables anyone in receipt of a qualifying mobility allowance to lease a car, scooter, powered wheelchair or Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV).
The Scheme promotes worry-free motoring, as they also support you with insurance, servicing and breakdown cover. My car gives me such pride and from my own experience with the Scheme, I genuinely have nothing but positive things to say.
Whilst the Scheme enables you to have a brand new vehicle every 3 years, I have opted to keep mine for as long as possible. However, as my 10 year driving anniversary looms, I have just started the process of getting an updated vehicle - which is a very exciting prospect!
For more information about the Motability Scheme, please visit: www.motability.co.uk
Disclaimer:
This post is in paid partnership with Motability Operations. As always, my comments are honest and entirely my own.